Through a donor’s generous gift, a new well was constructed in the province of Ruyigi. More than 3,186 people now have abundant access to safe, clean water near their homes.
In the heart of eastern Burundi lies the vibrant Kumoso region, where flourishing agriculture meets the resilience of the Gacokwe community. A new water system has brought life and opportunity to this growing village in Commune Gisuru, Ruyigi Province. This donor’s contribution helped pave the way for achieving clean water for every Burundian by 2030.
The well’s borehole reaches more than 94.4 meters into the ground. Taps, similar to the faucets we see in our gardens, are situated throughout the area to make water easy to access for all community members.
Before: A Daily Struggle for Water
For the people of Gacokwe, life before the water system was marked by scarcity and hardship. Families relied on a single improved spring — a 30-minute walk each way — that they had to share with residents of other villages. Long queues were a daily reality, robbing the community of precious time that could have been spent on farming, caring for livestock, or supporting children’s education. The lack of water didn’t just cost time; it also limited opportunities. Farming productivity suffered, and during the dry season, the absence of irrigation meant vegetable crops withered, and cattle struggled to survive.
After: A Life Transformed by Water
Today, everything has changed. “Before this water system, every day was a struggle,” says Juvenal Ndayizeye, a Gacokwe resident. The new water system in Gacokwe has brought abundant, accessible water rights to the community, transforming daily life and unlocking new opportunities.
Juvenal describes the impact with heartfelt gratitude. “This water has changed everything,” he shares. Juvenal has started making bricks during the dry season with a reliable water source — an income-generating activity that was impossible before. By the end of the season, he expects to earn over 400,000 BIF, money that will help him invest in his family’s future. The water system makes Juvenal’s cattle healthier, ensuring his family’s livelihood remains secure.
A Ripple Effect of Change
The transformation in Gacokwe goes beyond individual stories — it’s a community-wide change.
- Flourishing Agriculture: Vegetables thrive even during the dry season, providing food security and income for families.
- Time Restored: Women and children no longer spend hours waiting in line for water, giving them more time to focus on school, farming, and family life.
- Economic Opportunities: The availability of water has sparked new businesses like brickmaking, enabling residents to build better homes and brighter futures.
A Grateful People
This generous donation has brought clean, accessible water to Gacokwe, turning dreams into reality. Families are healthier, crops are thriving, and opportunities abound. We at Amazi Water and those served in Gacokwe are grateful for this compassion and kindness. Together, we’re building a future full of hope—one community at a time.
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